Millions of Cats by Wanda Ga'g

Millions of Cats 

Bibliography 

Ga'g, Wanda. 1928. Millions of Cats. New York: Coward-McCann, Inc. ISBN 0698206371 

Summary

The black and white illustrations keep the focus of Wanda Gág’s story on the cats in this delightful children’s book. An old man and woman are lonely and decide they need a cat. The man goes to find one, but cannot choose one because all the cats are so pretty. He heads home with billions and trillions of cats following him. The cats are asked to decide which one will be kept, and they fight and destroy each other as each claims to be the prettiest. One humble kitty is left, and it is loved and nurtured and becomes the prettiest cat of all.

Critical Analysis 

This classic children’s picture book from 1928 has a plot and illustrations which continue to capture the interest of children eighty years after it was written. The conflict is believable to the imagination of children, and the resolution is a happy one while subtly giving a message about humility winning over vanity. Rhyme and rhythm are sprinkled in the story and provide catchy lines for children to enjoy and repeat. One wonders why color has not been added to the illustrations of such a long lasting book as children would love the various beautiful colors of the cats. Maybe it is not illustrated anew due to the violence of the cats destroying each other. Some people may find that part of the story offensive and the black and white simple illustrations preferred over what would be an unpleasant colorful page.

Review Excerpts

School Library Journal's "100 Books Which Shaped the Country: "Considered by many to have ushered in the age of the modern picture book, this Newbery Honor winner is characterized by innovative design and a strong storyteller’s cadence.”

Connections 

Conduct a "Cat" Inquiry Learning project.

Discuss care and treatment of cats and pets.

Study "Cat" family including tiger, lion, and cheetah. 

Read The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister, ISBN   978-1558536. Contrast the differences.

Read The Ugly Duckling by Jerry Pinkney. ISBN 978-0688159320 Compare the similarities.  

Newbery Honor Winner 

SLJ Top 100 Picture Books

1958 Lewis Carroll Shelf Award